Health Library

Firearms

Firearms

Many homes in the U.S. have some type of firearm. But having a firearm in the home boosts the risk for unintentional death and injury among children.

A common problem is that adults underestimate a child's ability to get to a firearm in the home. Kids often aren't able to tell the difference between a real gun and toy guns. Children also aren't able to make good judgments about how to safely handle a gun.

To keep your child safe from firearms, consider whether it's worth the risk to keep a firearm in your home. If you do choose to keep a firearm, safely store the firearm locked up and out of reach. Keep ammunition in a separate, locked place from the actual firearm.

Talk with your child about the dangers of firearms. Teach your child to never touch or play with guns, and to tell an adult if he or she finds a gun.